HUNDREDS poured onto a Hampshire recreation ground last weekend for one of the first village fetes of 2015.

The rain held off in Cheriton for fun, games, a barbecue and the popular toy duck race on the River Itchen.

Tea and cake was served in the village hall while the scenic green played host to a range of traditional fairground games.

Meanwhile a raffle helped raise money towards maintaining the recreation ground. Organisers have yet to count the donations but hope to beat their record of over £4,000.

“With the recreation ground, we need at least that sort of funding to just stand still because there's a hefty insurance premium every year,” said Frances Hamilton.

“I think it went well. The weather held out for us with no rain, and local people did turn out well.

“A lot of work and effort goes into keeping the recreation ground nice - that sort of money just keeps us ticking over.”